The University of Akron has appointed one of its own as the new director of the Medina County University Center. UA alumna Denise Testa, who began her duties this April, is now responsible for the operation, management, credit and noncredit enrollment, budget and community engagement of the center.
Denise Testa
The MCUC is the primary contact of UA's leadership with community outreach and economic development in Medina County. One of the unique features of the MCUC is its flexibility in delivering programs that meet a local need with a regional impact among its communities.
"The center was originally started in collaboration with our local business, education and community leaders in Medina County," Testa said. "We intend to continue and expand these partnerships by offering academic programs taught by UA's highly qualified faculty. In addition, the unique Akron Experience is an important component for our students as they accomplish their personal, academic and professional goals."
Alumna brings range of experience to new role
Testa joined The University of Akron six years ago as associate director for student services at MCUC. As chairperson of MCUC’s Student Services Support Task Force, Testa worked with UA's departments and divisions to determine the delivery of student services and academic programs. Prior to this position, she worked at Kent State Tuscarawas and UA's Office of Admissions.
Since opening in spring 2008, the center has enrolled more than 2,000 undergraduate and graduate students in a variety of degree programs/classes, including general education, nursing, business and education. It also partners with local business and organizations to offer noncredit programs in supervisory leadership, insurance and customized training courses.
"At the MCUC, our students are able complete college courses close to home that are offered during the day, evening and weekend," added Testa. "I am looking forward to working with our communities in order to expand these opportunities."
Testa is a graduate of the Leadership Medina County Class of 2009, where she co-chaired the class project, Food for Families, raising more than 16,000 pounds of food for the Coalition of Medina County Food Pantries. The Greater Akron Chamber of Commerce recently recognized Testa as a recipient of the "30 for the Future" award.
Testa received a B.A. in 1993 and a M.A. in Education in 1997 at UA.
Story by Tyeal Howell
Media contact: Laura Massie, 330-972-6476 or massie1@uakron.edu.